Surgical and rehabilitation options in the treatment of the rheumatoid arthritis patient resistant to pharmacologic agents.

People with rheumatoid arthritis whose disease is poorly controlled with pharmacologic agents require treatment designed to reduce pain and inflammation and promote function and mechanical alignment. The proper evaluation of the musculoskeletal system and the patient's functional level must be performed. Heat, cold, splints, adaptive equipment, exercise, alternative therapies, and surgery are important adjunctive treatments for disease modulation and to maintain function and well being.